The political & Philosophical journey of an Englishman who became and American Citizen

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Stand Up

On the day that President Trump was sworn into office, a co-worker and I snuck out of a meeting to go to McDonalds. We went to McDonalds because we knew the local one had a TV and would most certainly be broadcasting the inauguration.

After President Trump and Vice President Pence had taken office, I stood up for the national anthem. I placed my hand over my heart with a deep respect for this country and what had just happened.

I was the only person in the restaurant to do that. My friend remarked to me that he thought it was really cool and respectful how much patriotism I showed to both to England and to the United States.

My friend knew how much I loved my home nation and how much I was looking forward to going back for a visit the next month. He also knew about my respect for this nation and that I am a proud gun owner and second amendment supporter.

I think it took him by surprise just how much I love both countries for similar reasons.

I was born in the UK. My ancestors are all English. I have family members who fought and died in both world wars. I am a huge fan of Sir Winston Churchill and I love everything that is and has ever been good about Great Britain.

By Equal measure I love the United States of America. I love everything that it stands for. I think that the American Constitution is the best document ever produced by mankind.

Anyone who’s read articles of mine in the past know I’ve been on a philosophical journey and that I’ve questioned everything about politics in this country. But not once have I ever disrespected the national anthem.

The sports players who have been taking a knee, or staying sat down in their locker rooms are a disgrace to themselves, their families, their fellow countrymen and the proud legacy of this great country.

You don’t have to agree with the politics of the day. You don’t have to like it. But you absolutely must be respectful of those who have fought and died for the freedoms that you enjoy.

President Trump is right to call out the players who have been taking a knee. The NFL will lose a lot of money over this. Sports is supposed to be about respect. It’s supposed to rise above the politics of the day and be a get away for a couple hours of fun.

Those who support taking a knee are a national embarrassment.

I’m sure plenty of sports fans will switch off the tv next week and find something else to do.